Dan Malesela appointed Africa School of Excellence football development head

Former Chippa United and Baroka FC coach Dan Malesela has taken up a new role as Head of Football Development at the revamped Africa School of Excellence.

Malesela, who is also known as “Dance”, is one of three senior appointments announced by the group now responsible for the historic school. His role will focus on the development of football at the institution.

Tim Dlulane has been appointed to oversee the school’s rugby ventures, while Morio Sanyane will serve as Group Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations.

The appointments form part of a wider plan by Chipcor Developers to rebuild and expand the Africa School of Excellence after taking responsibility for the school in a major revival project.

Chipcor Developers, led by businessman and Chilli Boys chairman Siviwe “Chippa” Mpengesi, was officially named the school’s new custodian in November 2025.

In a statement issued by Chippa on Tuesday morning, the group set out its long-term ambitions for the school and its wider sporting and educational activities.

“Chippa Group is proud to announce three strategic leadership appointments that reinforce our commitment to excellence, talent development, and organisational growth,” the statement read.

“We welcome Dan “Dance” Malesela as Head of Football Development at the Africa School of Excellence, Tim Dlulane to lead our rugby ventures, and Morio Sanyane as Group Head of Communications and Stakeholder Relations.

“Together, they will play a key role in advancing the Group’s vision and shaping the future of sport, education, and community development.”

Malesela’s appointment comes as the school seeks to restore its position following years of decline and deterioration. Before Chipcor Developers assumed control, Transnet had stepped in on a temporary basis to protect the institution.

That intervention followed financial problems under the school’s previous management, with Transnet acting to safeguard the site while its long-term future remained uncertain.

The Africa School of Excellence is now being repositioned as part of Chipcor Developers’ broader commitment to sport, education and community development. The newly announced leadership team is expected to contribute to that process through football, rugby and stakeholder engagement.

Malesela has previously coached Chippa United and Baroka FC. His new position moves him from the professional club environment into a role centred on football development at school level.

The announcement also included a notice from iDiski Times about its digital newspaper. The publication said its digital edition is completely free and can be downloaded using the button provided, or requested through a form for weekly delivery.